He Is Better Than That

If a tree falls in a forest and nobody hears it, does it make a sound?

If a gypsy pronounces a curse on behalf of Baby Pierre, and the curse comes true, but Baby Pierre doesn't witness it, then what?

Baby Pierre had been at the Fete du Porte de Peche all morning. He had been one of the first to get there.

He had looked at the fishing boats and the colourful sheds just as Ouvert had done, later on.

He had seen the stalls being set up. He had watched as the fisher folks began cooking sardines and mussels, mackerel, tuna and octopus. He had smelled the fine smell of fresh seafood.

All of a sudden he had felt a great sense of happiness. What need had he of revenge?

What was it Nietzsche had said? You are better than that. Yes, I am better than that, thought Baby Pierre.

I don't want Ouvert to choke on sardines.

Baby Pierre caught the bus back to the Place de Verdun.

He went to the Cafe de la Paix and sat at a table inside.

It was a beautiful old Belle Epoche cafe complete with cracked mouldy mirrors.

He ordered a Radeau.

He had never ordered a Radeau before.

What would it be?

It was, when it came, lemonade with a twist of citron.

Baby Pierre admired his drink for a while.

Then he left without paying.

The world was his oyster.

Where would he go next?

Perhaps it was time to go home.